Diplomacy – India’s Global Role Draws Attention at Washington Policy Summit
Diplomacy – India’s expanding economic and geopolitical presence was at the centre of discussions during a major policy summit in Washington, where US Congressman Ro Khanna urged New Delhi to embrace a larger role in addressing international challenges.
India’s Rising Influence Discussed at Capitol Hill Gathering
Speaking during the Capitol Hill Summit 2026 hosted by the US-India Friendship Council, Khanna said India’s rapid economic progress and growing strategic influence now place greater expectations on the country in world affairs. He noted that nations aspiring to global leadership cannot avoid difficult international responsibilities.
During a discussion focused on defence cooperation, emerging technologies and energy partnerships, the California lawmaker said India stands at an important moment in its global journey. According to him, the country must determine how it wishes to position itself as an influential power in the coming decades.
Khanna Highlights India’s Potential Role in Ukraine Conflict
Khanna also addressed the ongoing war in Ukraine, stating that India could contribute meaningfully to diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions. He pointed out that New Delhi has maintained long-standing communication channels with Moscow, which may help create opportunities for dialogue.
The congressman suggested that India’s historical policy of maintaining balanced relations with major global powers has served the country well in the past. However, he added that shifting international realities now require stronger engagement on major geopolitical issues.
He remarked that India’s status as one of the fastest-growing economies in the world naturally increases expectations from the international community regarding peace-building and diplomatic initiatives.
Strong Support for India Across US Political Circles
Despite recent disagreements over tariffs and trade matters during President Donald Trump’s administration, Khanna stressed that the broader strategic relationship between Washington and New Delhi remains stable.
He explained that support for closer ties with India continues to exist across party lines in the US Congress. According to Khanna, lawmakers from both the Democratic and Republican parties recognise the importance of cooperation with India in areas such as Indo-Pacific security, advanced technology and defence partnerships.
At the same time, he criticised certain voices within the Trump administration whom he described as unsupportive of stronger India-US engagement. He specifically referred to officials who have expressed concerns regarding India-related trade and policy issues.
Focus on Democratic Values and International Cooperation
Earlier during the summit, Khanna spoke about the importance of building the India-US relationship on democratic principles rather than narrow political interests. He warned against the rise of aggressive nationalism and authoritarian tendencies in different parts of the world.
The congressman said both nations should continue working together to strengthen democratic institutions, pluralism and international collaboration. He emphasised that the partnership between the two countries should reflect shared democratic values and social diversity.
Khanna also described the United States and India as multicultural democracies capable of contributing positively to global stability through cooperation and open governance.
Personal Reflection on Indian American Political Journey
During his address, Khanna reflected on his own experience as an Indian American politician in the United States. He recalled that earlier in his career, some people had doubted whether an Indian American Hindu candidate could successfully win elected office in the country.
He credited encouragement from US-India Friendship Council chairman Swadesh Chatterjee as an important source of support during that period. Khanna said Chatterjee consistently motivated him to continue pursuing public service despite challenges.
Representing California’s Silicon Valley-based 17th Congressional District, Khanna has become one of the leading Indian American figures in US politics. He is widely recognised for his positions on technology policy, democratic governance and international affairs, particularly regarding relations between the United States and India.